Melissa obtained a Bachelor of Science, with a double major in Human Nutrition and Exercise and Sport Science at Massey University, Palmerston North. Melissa continued on at Massey to achieve an MSc in Exercise and Sport Science, focusing on heat acclimation. Following her studies, Melissa worked at Prozone Sports for a year before moving down to Wellington and starting a Research Assistant role in the School of Sport and Exercise at Massey University. From there, Melissa took up a Junior Research Officer role, conducting research projects at Massey for 1.5 years prior to starting at MRINZ.

Melissa currently works as a Research Coordinator for MRINZ where she conducts and coordinates various research projects. She uses her skills and experience in the clinical research setting, as well as in the designing and managing side of research. Her current areas of research are asthma and respiratory tract infections.

On her life outside of work, Melissa says: “I’ve always been into sport – playing soccer, cricket and doing taekwondo and running most of my life. I’m now focusing primarily on running, concentrating on 10km and half marathon distances as well as running Cross Country and Road for Wellington Harrier Athletic Club during winter.”